Question 1

Why should rodents not be fasted before surgery?

Accepted Answer

Rodents have a high metabolic rate and very limited fat reserves, making them vulnerable to complications from fasting. Pre-surgical fasting can compromise their health status and recovery outcomes. Instead, evaluate the animal's hydration using the skin elasticity test before proceeding with the surgical procedure.

Question 2

What is the proper technique for preparing the surgical site on a rodent?

Accepted Answer

After anesthesia induction and maintenance, shave the surgical area using electric clippers with appropriate blade size. Remove debris with moistened gauze, then scrub with antiseptic solution in a circular pattern from the incision site outward. Repeat the cleansing and rinsing cycle at least three times, then cover with a sterile gauze pad soaked in alcohol or iodine until positioning.

Question 3

How should surgical instruments be sterilized for rodent surgery?

Accepted Answer

Wrap instruments in individually autoclavable pouches and place them in a tented configuration inside the autoclave to allow complete steam penetration. For serial surgeries, sterilize instruments between each animal using a bead sterilizer for 10-15 seconds. Always allow instruments to cool completely before using them on the next animal to prevent thermal injury.

Question 4

What vital signs should be monitored during rodent surgery?

Accepted Answer

Monitor body temperature using a rectal probe designed for rodents, maintaining the normal range of 35.3 to 38°C. Visually observe heart rate, respirations, and tail color throughout the procedure. Electrocardiograms can provide additional cardiac monitoring. Continue monitoring until the animal is fully recovered from anesthesia.

Question 5

How should a rodent be positioned and secured for dorsal surgical procedures?

Accepted Answer

Place the animal in prone position on an insulated, heated surgical platform. Secure the limbs using ligature or tape while avoiding circulation compromise, excessive limb tension, joint overstretching, or impeded breathing. Proper positioning maintains the sterile field and ensures animal safety throughout the procedure.

Question 6

What post-operative care should be provided after rodent survival surgery?

Accepted Answer

Return the animal to a recovery cage placed partially over a heating pad, allowing it to move away from heat after regaining consciousness. Make food easily accessible and provide pre-emptive and postoperative analgesia whenever possible. This approach reduces pain, prevents hypothermia, and supports successful recovery.

Question 7

What environmental conditions must be maintained in the surgical area?

Accepted Answer

The surgical area must be free of clutter and sanitized with appropriate hard surface disinfectant. Position the area away from direct ventilation drafts to prevent hypothermia. Use an insulated surgery platform with supplemental heat source. These conditions minimize infection risk, prevent hypothermia, and create an optimal environment for aseptic technique.

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